We walked along the shoreline of Silver lake insearch of migrating birds, but we found so much more. The otters have returned! Last seen last November, they are back.

And yes, migrating waterfowl have begun returning for sure.

The ice has nearly melted, and two otters cavorted off shore near the island in the middle of the lake. We watched and waited, and finally spotted on otter climb onto the remaining ice near the island and soon realized he was chowing down on dinner.

Hunting the waters of Silver Lake

Silver Lake has rewarded his hunting with a tasty fish.

Dinner time

We don’t expect the pair to stay for too long, this is really a small lake. But for now, we’re taking in the views, enjoying seeing them swim and dive. And no, we don’t have seals, those are indeed river otters.

Fish for dinner

You just never know what adventure awaits along the shores of Silver Lake.

Marjorie Turner Hollman

Marjorie Turner Hollman is a personal historian who loves the outdoors, and has completed two guides to Easy Walking trails in Massachusetts, “Easy Walks in Massachusetts 2nd edition,” and “More Easy Walks in Massachusetts.” A native Floridian, she came north for college and snow! Marjorie is a Certified Legacy Planner with LegacyStories.org, and is the producer of numerous veterans interviews for the Bellingham/Mendon Veteran’s History Project. http://www.marjorieturner.com

I have my doubts about whether our small lake is big enough for them to stay around to support a family, but the fact that they were here last fall and have come back is encouraging. Such a joy to watch them swimming, and watch them enjoy the fruits of their hunting endeavors.